Brief Introduction of Yeonjun
Choi Yeonjun, known worldwide simply as Yeonjun, is a prominent South Korean singer, rapper, dancer, songwriter, and model. He is celebrated as the eldest member of the popular K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), which was formed by Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE Labels) and debuted in 2019. Since his introduction as the first member of the group, Yeonjun has captivated a global audience with his exceptional all-around skills, powerful stage presence, and unique fashion sense. His versatility and consistent excellence in performance have earned him the moniker “4th Gen It Boy,” solidifying his status as a leading figure in the new generation of K-pop idols. Beyond his group activities, Yeonjun has also embarked on a successful solo career, further showcasing his artistic depth and individuality.
Yeonjun Overview
| Full Name | Choi Yeon Jun |
| Date of Birth | September 13, 1999 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 26 |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Profession | Singer, Rapper, Dancer, Songwriter, Model |
| Husband/Wife | Not applicable |
| Family | Father, Mother (He is an only child) |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million USD |
Early Life and Education of Yeonjun
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Choi Yeonjun spent a significant part of his formative years in Seongnam City, Gyeonggi-do. An only child, he has expressed that this upbringing contributed to the strong, familial bond he shares with his fellow TXT members. A pivotal experience in his early life was moving to San Jose, California, at the age of nine and living there for two years. This period abroad allowed him to become fluent in English, a skill that has proven invaluable in connecting with a global fanbase. His passion for performance blossomed early, leading him to enroll at Korea Arts High School, where he majored in the music department to hone his skills. After graduating, he furthered his education by enrolling at the Global Cyber University, balancing his academic pursuits with his demanding career as a K-pop idol.
Yeonjun’s Career
Yeonjun’s journey to stardom was marked by immense dedication and hard work. Before joining Big Hit Entertainment, he was briefly a trainee at CUBE Entertainment. In 2014, he auditioned for Big Hit Entertainment by performing BTS’s hit song “Boy in Luv.” Over the next five years, the longest training period among the original Big Hit artists at the time, he built a formidable reputation. He consistently ranked first in monthly evaluations for dance, rap, and vocals, earning him the nickname “Big Hit’s legendary trainee.”
On January 10, 2019, Yeonjun was unveiled as the very first member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER. The announcement created a massive buzz, with his introduction film surpassing one million views within 24 hours and his name trending worldwide. TXT officially debuted on March 4, 2019, with the extended play (EP) The Dream Chapter: Star. The album was an instant success, topping the Gaon Album Chart and Billboard’s World Albums Chart, and its lead single “Crown” also debuted at number one on the World Digital Songs chart. This successful debut earned TXT a “Rookie Grand Slam,” sweeping the major new artist awards at ceremonies like the Golden Disc Awards and the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
As a core member of TXT, Yeonjun has been instrumental in the group’s meteoric rise. He is known for his sharp rap verses, fluid yet powerful dance moves, and stable vocals, making him a true all-rounder. The group has released a series of successful albums, including studio albums like The Dream Chapter: Magic and The Chaos Chapter: Freeze, and multiple EPs that have consistently charted high both domestically and internationally. The Chaos Chapter: Freeze was particularly notable, receiving critical acclaim and becoming the highest-charting 2021 album by a Korean act on the Billboard 200 at the time of its release. The group also made history as the first K-pop group to headline the major U.S. music festival, Lollapalooza.
Beyond his group activities, Yeonjun has explored various solo endeavors. He has made cameo appearances in dramas, such as “Live On,” and has been a prominent figure in the fashion world, walking in New York Fashion Week for the brand ul:kin in 2021. He served as a host for the popular music show Inkigayo from April 2022 to April 2024. In September 2024, he made his official solo debut with the mixtape “GGUM,” a hip-hop track that showcases his unique style and artistry. The song achieved significant success, earning him his first music show win as a solo artist on Mnet’s M Countdown and charting on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales.
Yeonjun Personal Life & Family
Yeonjun is known to be an only child and maintains a private personal life, a common practice for K-pop idols. Information about his parents is not publicly detailed, though he has shared anecdotes about his family. He has not been publicly linked to any romantic relationships, and in fan interactions, he has playfully stated that his ideal type is his fans, known as MOA. He has a close circle of friends within the industry, including members of ATEEZ and Stray Kids. Yeonjun is known for his bright and outgoing personality, though he also describes himself as his own toughest critic, constantly striving for perfection in his craft. His interests include dancing, skating, fashion, and gaming.
Awards and Achievements of Yeonjun
As a member of TXT, Yeonjun has received numerous awards. The group achieved a “Rookie Grand Slam” in their debut year, winning Best New Male Artist at the Mnet Asian Music Awards and Rookie of the Year at the Golden Disc Awards, among others. Throughout their career, TXT has won multiple Bonsang (Main Prize) awards at major Korean music award shows. Individually, Yeonjun has also been recognized. In 2025, he won several awards at the Hanteo Music Awards, including Global Artist (North America) for his solo work. His solo debut song “GGUM” also secured a first-place win on Mnet’s M Countdown. Additionally, he won the OST Popularity Award at the Blue Dragon Series Awards for his song “Boyfriend.”
- Best Performance (Daesang) at Hanteo Music Awards (with TXT)
- Artist of the Year (Bonsang) at Hanteo Music Awards (with TXT)
- Global Artist (North America) at Hanteo Music Awards
- OST Popularity Award at Blue Dragon Series Awards
- Rookie of the Year at the 34th Golden Disc Awards (with TXT)
- Best New Male Artist at the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards (with TXT)
- Named one of GQ Korea’s Men of the Year (2024)
Yeonjun Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Yeonjun’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million USD. His primary sources of income are his activities with TXT, including album sales, global tours, merchandise, and concert revenue. Additionally, his solo endeavors significantly contribute to his earnings. These include his solo music releases, songwriting royalties, and numerous high-profile brand endorsements. He has served as a brand ambassador for luxury brands like Moncler and has collaborated with fashion lines such as Privé Alliance, showcasing his strong marketability and influence in the fashion industry.
Legacy and Influence
Yeonjun’s influence extends far beyond his musical talents. He is widely recognized as the “4th Gen It Boy,” a title that reflects his status as a trendsetter in fashion, performance, and overall charisma for the current generation of K-pop. This title, which originated with international fans, is now widely acknowledged by media outlets. Yeonjun himself views the title as a motivator to continually improve and present the best version of himself. He is a fashion icon, known for his bold and eclectic style, and has graced the covers of numerous fashion magazines like GQ Korea and Elle Korea. His ambassadorships with major fashion houses like Moncler further cement his status in the industry. As a performer, he is praised for his captivating stage presence and is considered one of the top dancers of his generation.
Interesting Facts about Yeonjun
- He is a former trainee of CUBE Entertainment.
- He lived in San Jose, California, for two years as a child.
- Due to his exceptional and consistent performance during his training, he was known as the “legendary trainee.”
- He created the official TXT hand logo/gesture.
- He is fluent in English.
- His hobbies include dancing, skating, and eating.
- He is considered a fashionista within the group and the wider K-pop industry.
- He made his modeling debut at New York Fashion Week in 2021.
Controversies
Yeonjun has maintained a relatively controversy-free career. However, in August 2024, he faced some criticism for posting photos with a Japanese backdrop on South Korea’s National Liberation Day, a day marking the end of Japanese colonial rule. Some netizens found the timing to be insensitive given the historical context. In response, Yeonjun issued a sincere apology through the fan community platform Weverse, acknowledging his oversight and expressing his remorse for not being more considerate of the day’s historical significance. He pledged to be more careful in the future.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram (@yawnzzn) – Approximately 19 million followers
- Twitter – TXT’s official group account (@TXT_members) has a substantial following.
- YouTube – TXT’s official channel (HYBE LABELS) has a large subscriber base.
Final Words about Yeonjun
Choi Yeonjun stands as a formidable talent and a leading figure in the fourth generation of K-pop. From his early days as a “legendary trainee” to his current status as a global superstar with TXT and a promising solo artist, his journey is a testament to his relentless hard work and innate talent. His ability to excel in every aspect of performance—singing, rapping, and dancing—combined with his trendsetting style and charismatic personality, has rightfully earned him the title of “4th Gen It Boy.” As he continues to evolve as an artist, both with his group and through his solo projects, Yeonjun is poised to leave an indelible mark on the global music and fashion industries, continually pushing boundaries and inspiring fans worldwide with his dedication and passion.